Tires

Are your tires bald, cracked, or just not performing? Replace your worn-out tires at KGCAR.PH, the Philippines Online Auto Parts Store. Tires are your vehicle’s only contact with the road to affect traction, braking, ride comfort, and gas mileage.  Each tire carries the load of the vehicle, transferring power and steering input to the ground while maintaining traction in varying weather and road conditions. Over time, the tread wears down, the rubber ages, and the tires lose performance. With uneven or shallow tread, visible side wall damage, or excessive vibration, it may simply be time for a replacement.  Driving on worn or improperly inflated tires can affect handling, extend stopping distance, and increase the risk of a blowout.

Tire Replacement Intervals and Factors

Tires do not last forever, and the longevity of the tire depends on the manufacturer, type of tire, the road surface, and driving behaviour. In general, tires last between 40,000 and 70,000 miles, but tires could also fail much earlier. You should replace your tires if you notice:

• Tread depth: less than 2/32 of an inch in remaining tread (use a tread gauge or try the penny test)
• Cracks, cuts, and/or bulges in the sidewalls
• Uneven wear patterns from alignment or suspension issues
• Constantly losing air, or puncture marks in the sidewall or tread
• Excessive noise/cab shake or vibration while driving
• The tire is six years old or older, even if the tread looks fine

Driving behaviour such as hard cornering, hard braking, and poor road conditions will also wear tires down quickly. Frequent inspection of your tires can help in safe driving.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your Vehicle

Tire selection should match your vehicle’s specifications and driving conditions. Refer to the door placard or owner’s manual for the correct size and load rating. Consider these categories:

Always match the tire type, speed rating, and load capacity to your vehicle’s needs and regional weather conditions.

Symptoms of Worn Tires and Related Risks

Ignoring tire wear or damage can lead to unsafe driving conditions. Watch for these signs:

• Reduced Traction: Worn tread leads to poor grip in rain, snow, or cornering
• Vibration or Pulling: Could indicate imbalance, internal damage, or alignment issues
• Tire Pressure Loss: Frequent refills may signal punctures or bead leaks
• Visible Wear Bars: Raised rubber bars across the tread show when tires are legally worn out
• Bulges or Sidewall Cracks: Signs of internal tire damage, requiring immediate replacement

Driving on compromised tires can result in blowouts, hydroplaning, or loss of control.

Types of Tires and Their Differences

Tire types vary in tread design, rubber compounds, and construction to suit different uses and environments:

All-Season Tires

Purpose: Balanced year-round performance
Pros: Versatile, good for mild conditions
Cons: Not optimal in extreme snow or heat

Winter/Snow Tires

Purpose: Cold-weather traction
Pros: Superior grip on snow and ice, softer rubber
Cons: Wears quickly in warm temperatures

Summer Performance Tires

Purpose: Maximum dry/wet grip in warm weather
Pros: Excellent handling and braking
Cons: Poor performance in cold or snow

All-Terrain Tires

Purpose: Mixed-use on- and off-road
Pros: Durable sidewalls, aggressive tread
Cons: Increased road noise, reduced fuel economy

Run-Flat Tires

Purpose: Temporary driving after a puncture
Pros: Maintains function with zero pressure
Cons: Stiff ride, limited distance post-damage

Tire Fitment and Compatibility

Proper tire fitment ensures safe and reliable performance. Check these specs before buying:

• Tire size (width, aspect ratio, diameter)
• Load index and speed rating
• Rim diameter and offset
• Tread pattern clearance from fenders or suspension
• Compatibility with TPMS sensors and ABS systems

Incorrect size or load rating can lead to speedometer error, clearance issues, or unsafe handling.

Common Mistakes in Tire Maintenance

• Failing to rotate tires regularly (every 5,000 to 7,000 miles)
• Ignoring alignment or suspension problems that cause uneven wear
• Running on under- or over-inflated tires
• Mixing different types or brands on the same axle
• Skipping regular tread depth and pressure checks
• Not replacing tires based on age, even with good tread